Fortunately the world needs more programmers than it does actors so there is some underlying demand to soak up the programmers who don't make it big. A backup plan of $60-100K a year is hardly the same as being a barista at starbucks for the next 30 years.
Well, a Starbucks manager in Los Angeles doesn't make that much far off from $60k, but regardless, you're right that that's the case for now, but I would point out that Silicon Valley is extremely young in comparison to Hollywood.
But most importantly, the point I'd make is this: If Silicon Valley is our Hollywood, where is our Broadway?
